Mapping Our Future

Mapping Our Future

How we’re working to create a cohesive network of huts

Updated 12/14/17:

The map to your left represents a year’s worth of meetings and discussions to create the conceptual corridor between Killington and Stowe. We will now begin to identify which locations to build and prioritize while simultaneously looking to the north and south for routes of additional connectivity to create the complete Canada to Massachusetts hut experience.

Every hut icon you see on the map is a new opportunity for outdoor recreation and greater statewide connectivity. While any new hut on state or federal lands will require a careful proposal and review process, this map is a huge step toward a cohesive hut network in the Green Mountains.

Original post from May 4, 2017:

Vermont Huts has entered Phase Two of its strategic plan, which (we think) is one of the most exciting things since sliced bread. In order to create a cohesive network of accommodations across the state, we must identify suitable areas on or in close proximity to the over 900 miles of trails in Vermont. This is where the fun starts.

Working with representatives from Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont Forests, Parks, and Rec., Rochester/Randolph Area Sports Trail Alliance, Vermont Mountain Bike Association, Green Mountain Club, and the Catamount Trail Association, we will begin to identify approximately 20-30 zones across the state which may host a new hut. Priority will be given to backcountry zones hosting multi-use trails (hiking/mountain biking/skiing) or where trails closely parallel one another and could be connected via a spur trail with the hut located in the middle.

That’s a tall task, but not an impossible one. Vermont’s trail networks are already off to an incredible start. The Catamount Trail and Long Trail already traverse the length of Vermont from Canada to Massachusetts, and mountain biking trails managed by hard-working volunteers and chapters across the state are slowly beginning to approach one another with connector trails.

Looking at a map, our immediate efforts will primarily be focused on the trails located between Killington and Morrisville. This is not to say we won’t take on projects to the north and south of those towns, but the opportunity for chapter connectivity is imminent throughout that corridor, and we believe the addition of huts will serve as an additional catalyst to foster trail growth.

After we have identified the approximate hospitable zones, we will begin to meet with local trail chapters across the state to determine the exact location of the new huts (because locals know their trails best!). This will give us an opportunity to gather community feedback, and hear from interested caretakers/volunteers. We anticipate “breaking ground” on our first hut in the fall of 2018.

As an emerging nonprofit, we are fully aware that our organization could not exist without the countless hours, days, months, and years of extensive trail work and volunteer dedication across the state. For that reason, Vermont Huts is committed to giving back a portion of every reservation in our huts to the local chapter responsible for maintaining the trails that link our huts together.

Please stay tuned for updates on this exciting project by subscribing to our newsletter. We’ll need your help to make it happen, and the best way to learn how to get involved is to stay informed!

ABOUT US

We are a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission of providing an enriching and immersive outdoor experience for everyone. By collaborating with our partners in recreation, we will create a four-season hut network across the Green Mountain State.

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As a young organization, every dollar counts. Your donation is 100% tax-deductible, and it will go directly toward enhancing recreation opportunities in Vermont. Our huts won't build themselves, so we thank you in advance for your generous contribution.